Laura Helmer

Laura Jean Helmer, age 61, a lifelong resident of Sparta, Michigan, stepped into the presence of her Lord and Savior on December 29, 2023. Her life was a testament to her faith, as she lived out the words of Psalm 119:105, "Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path." Laura was born March 10, 1962, in Grant, Michigan, to James and Dorothy (Shue) Shook Jr. She graduated from Grant High School with the class of 1980. Shortly after graduation Laura's best friend set her up on a blind date with Craig Allen Helmer. Little did Laura know that this man would be the love of her life and the couple married on December 3, 1982 in Grant, MI. Soon after marriage, Laura and Craig had three children. In order to stay home and spend time with the kids, Laura ran an in home day care for extra income until her children were old enough to go to school. It was then that she started her career in customer service. She worked at various companies throughout the years and was a dedicated and hard working employee who worked her way up into management before retiring. Laura and Craig celebrated 35 years of marriage together before Craig passed away unexpectedly on November 29, 2017. Laura, a devoted mother, grandmother, and friend, found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She cherished moments spent singing karaoke, a hobby that harkened back to her days of singing in the church choir. Laura's love for adventure was evident in the road trips she took with her girlfriends. As a retired and widowed woman, she found immense joy in spending quality time with her beloved grandchildren. Her past involvement in 4-H and the Eagles Club demonstrated her commitment to community and personal growth. Laura's love for her late husband, Craig, was apparent to all who knew them. Their love story was a beautiful testament to commitment and companionship. Laura leaves behind a beautiful legacy in her beloved children and their partners, Cory (Samantha) Helmer, Carrie (Tony) Schneider, and Amanda (Kyle) Handlogten; her doting grandchildren, Luella, Carter, Rachel, Lexi, Colton, and Cooper; her mother, Dorothy Shook; sister, Stacey (Dave) Groenke; sisters-in-law, Karen Potes and Janet (Larry) Belcher; brother-in-law, Bruce (Denise) Helmer; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Laura was preceded in death by her husband, Craig; father, James Shook Jr.; brother, James Shook III; parents-in-law, Stanley and Roberta Helmer; and brother-in-law, Murray Potes. Per her wishes cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life will take place on Sunday, March 10, 2024, and details regarding the place and time will be posted as soon as they become available. The family would like to extend a special thank you to the staff of Corewell Hospice, especially Laura's nurse, Mindi for the sincere compassion and help she gave throughout this difficult process. Donations in memory of Laura may be given to Donate Life. (click the link below to donate online) As we mourn the loss of Laura, let us also celebrate her life and the love she shared with us all. Please take a moment to share a cherished memory, a photo, or a story about Laura on her memorial page. These mementos will serve as comforting reminders of the unique and loving woman Laura was. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Laura Helmer, please visit our flower store.